Explain what a study of St. Mark’s Gospel can tell Christians about the nature of discipleship.
...is how Mark thinks people should respond to Jesus’ call. Jesus’ choice of Levi, a tax–collector, is very shocking. Like the others, Levi follows Jesus straight away. Mark again emphasises that the Kingdom of God is for all, even outcasts like Levi. One of the disciples’ tasks was to preach. In one incident, Jesus sent out the disciples to preach to people that they should repent. The disciples were also sent out to drive out demons and heal the sick. They were to go in pairs to different towns and were not allowed to carry bread, money, or extra clothing. They were to be completely dependent on God. The disciples were instructed to accept any hospitality they were offered and, in entering a town were they were not welcomed, they were to shake the dust off their feet. By doing this, the apostles are warning those who do not listen could be left outside the Kingdom of God. This was also a sign to show that the disciples had no time for them because they had rejected God. Jesus gives a very clear indication of the cost of discipleship. He said: “Anyone who wishes to be a follower of mine must leave self-behind, he must take up his cross and come with me.” (8:34) When Jesus told his followers to leave-self behind He did not mean denying oneself. To leave self-behind means to put oneself last in all things; to have no care about one’s position or esteem; and to have no desire for rights or privileges except that of belonging to God. Discipleship means being prepared to follow Jesus even to the point of death. This is what Jesus describes as taking up one’s cross. Also Jesus’ invitation to go with Him is an invitation to travel along the same road. Discipleship can involve suffering, rejection and death. Mark reminds his readers that discipleship makes a total demand. Some are called to leave everything and follow, regardless of the cost. Discipleship would involve self-sacrifice, careful stewardship, humility and service. The disciples had to learn that they would be treated no better than their master would. The nature of Discipleship is not one of privilege or position but is one of humble service. Jesus makes it quite clear, however, that to those who do respond there will be a reward. Just as Jesus will rise from the dead after the suffering and death, so those who accept the challenge to become disciples will find life. The true disciple will be rewarded with eternal life. In His selection of disciples, Jesus chose ordinary people who, on occasion, lacked faith. James and John’s faith was challenged when they made their request: “Let one of us sit at your right and the other at your left in glory.” (10:37) They both lacked faith on this ...